Bethwyn Richards has consistently ranked among the top female agents in the country, setting records across Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.
An integral part of The Agency's team, Bethwyn Richards knowledge and expertise along Sydneys eastern beaches is unparalleled. With over 20 years' experience buying and selling premium properties, she has built has her exceptional reputation through the delivery of results exceeding her client's expectations. Bethwyn's client network spans the entirety of the Eastern Suburbs, and a centred especially around the prime beachside suburbs of Bronte, Tamarama, Coogee and Clovelly, and reaching to nearby Centennial Park, Randwick and Waverley.
As the mother of three teenage boys Bethwyn is extremely well regarded throughout the Eastern Suburbs communities, with a first-class network of clients, second to none. Bethwyn’s name is synonymous with the very best results for prime real estate in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.
She has built strong and loyal relationships with her clients, achieving many suburb records through well-honed negotiation skills, in-depth market knowledge and a firm trust shared with buyers. High energy, focus and connection are her defining service qualities and have led to repeated outstanding results at all price points
Source: Bethwyn RichardsShe has built strong and loyal relationships with her clients, achieving incredible results through well-honed negotiation skills, in-depth market knowledge and a firm trust shared with buyers. High energy, focus and connection are her defining service qualities and have led to repeated outstanding results at all price points.
WILLIAMS MEDIA spoke to Bethwyn about her career in real estate.
Why real estate?
Having been a physical education teacher in Perth and London, I was looking for a fresh start. At the age of 24 I completed a post graduate degree in Business and at 25 I moved to Sydney where I was guided into real estate by the female recruiter who was interviewing me. Four weeks later I commenced at McGrath Estate Agents where I spent the next 20 years.
Immediately I was taken in by the excitement of the industry, from connecting with individuals and families who need your help in this highly emotional transition. I loved the fact that you had a deadline and a sense of achievement come sale day, that was bought to fruition in a relatively short period.
Image: 28 The Avenue Randwick sold by Bethwyn Richards. Source: The AgencyWhat was the most important advice you were given early in your career?
A couple of points stand out:
What are your predictions about the market in your area?
Irrespective of the economic climate, there always appears to be a shortage of family homes and properties in the high end. This was the case when the market was booming in 2021 and still is the case in 2022. Properties above $7m continue to sell well.
First homeowners are now seeing a lot of choice and are slower in reacting to making decisions. It is in these price points that we are seeing a real difference. Many properties are heading to Auction rather than selling prior.
Source: Bethwyn RichardsHave you noticed any changes in buyers and sellers over last 12 months?
I feel sellers are fairly realistic in 2022. Those who are ready to commit and put their properties on the market are clear about their end goal and why they wish to move. They understand the economics.
However, buyer behaviour has changed. Rather than rapidly placing offers in the first week of a campaign which was the behaviour in 2021, many purchasers are staying tight-lipped and are leaving their bidding till Auction day.
Image: 16 Wolseley Road Coogee sold by Bethwyn Richards. Source: Bethwyn RichardsWhat are vendors saying and what advice you would give them for the best outcome?
My vendors respect my advice and what I am repeatedly told is 'we will be guided by you'.
Typically, they are asking "what is my home really worth and what do i need to do to maximise my price?" I am very clear in the process required and assist them in all areas. This includes tradespeople/stylist to present the home at its best, tailor the marketing campaign for the best reach and position their home correctly in terms of start price.
What are buyers saying and what advice do you give them?
Buyers are asking about interest rates and market predictions for the next 12 months. In any changing climate, I will ask them a series of questions regarding their property goals. This includes their long-term plans, and how long they have been looking. I encourage them to focus on the bigger picture and remind them why they believe this is the right property for them. This directs them away from the dollar number and focuses on the excitement of buying the home.
Source: Bethwyn RichardsWhat is one thing you have learned as an agent?
Ride the wave as there are lots of ups and downs. Be proud of what you do and how you make people feel. This is not a job for the faint hearted but there is a huge sense of achievement at the end of the day. To know that you can make such a difference in people's lives is the real motivation and why this is such a great profession.
Source: Bethwyn RichardsWhat do you feel is the most important thing for a successful career in Real Estate?
Be honest, be reliable, and be an expert in all things real estate.
What are your interests outside of real estate?
I have three teenage boys who are my priority outside of work. Life for any parent, as we know is very busy!!
I love to keep active with regular exercise, coastal walks, swimming, pilates and running. So important for the mind. Travel is how I reset and really relax. I have a current love affair with Thailand and try to get there twice a year. I am dying to get back to Italy, it's one of my most favourite countries in the world. Basically, take me to any coastal location and I am happy!
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